Think someone is having a stroke? Idaho officials say don't drive

Idaho officials declared the state a “Stroke Smart State” as they kicked off a campaign aimed at improving stroke outcomes, including urging residents to rely on emergency services rather than driving themselves. Speaking at the Idaho State Capitol, Gov. Brad Little joined medical professionals to announce that July would be the state’s first official Stroke Awareness Month. Health officials said stroke is the seventh-leading cause of death in Idaho and emphasize that time to treatment is crucial; they cited that about 2 million brain cells are lost each minute a stroke goes untreated. Officials stressed the “Dial 911, Don’t Drive” message, noting EMS can shorten delays and begin treatment upon arrival. They also promoted the BEFAST warning signs and said patients treated within the first hour are three times more likely to recover with little or no lasting disability. Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center nurse Melissa Campbell highlighted that strokes can occur at any age.